Augusto Ortega

Monkaaba

Monkaaba was founded in 2020 by Esnaider Ortega Gomez and Didier Ortega. Esnaider formerly worked for a larger exporter, but could see that a greater level of transparency, fairness and commitment was possible in the supply chain. In collaboration with Brendan Adams of Semilla, now Monkaaba’s import partner, they set about building their vision.

San Agustin

Esnaider grew up in a household that valued support, community and collaboration. Monkaaba has been built on these values from the start. His father has always been a coffee producer, but instead of seeing others as competition, he has sought to build a community around coffee production, even helping some of his former pickers with loans to purchase their first land. Esnaider and Didier started together with a small group of 6 families, basing their operation out of the family home outside of San Agustin, in Southern Huila. Since then, Monkaaba has grown steadily; for the 2025 harvest they worked together with 80 families around San Agustin, and moved into their own bodega in town.

Washed Sidra

Especially when facing challenges from climate change and soil erosion, this security allows Augusto to continue investing in his farm, and produce consistent quality. This includes planting new varietals, like this Sidra. This washed lot communicates the deeply sweet and fruity character of the varietal, grown at high altitude in rich Huila soil.

Here we find soft florals, tropical fruit and a deep brown sugar sweetness.